Monday, 20 February 2012

I love the muppets. There's something about their charm, humour and character that have captured my imagination both as a child and an adult.

This year (or last year if your in the US), they come out of retirement after many long years left muppet-less. But now I can tell you that it was worth the wait! The Muppets movie is one of the best films I've seen in a long time!

The story goes that The Muppets have broken up and haven't put on a show in a long time. Because of this Tex Richman (who has discovered that there's oil underneath the Muppet Theatre) is planning to buy it - only to knock it down and drill for oil. The Muppets have to reunite and work together to raise $10 million and save the muppet theatre!

Tex Richman

The strong (human) cast of Jason Segel and Amy Adams are brilliant - Adams proves once again how versatile she is. She seems to be able to portray any character well, and has great chemistry with on-screen partner Jason Segel who also does a great job breathing life into his role.

Segel also did a great job writing (with help from Nicholas Stoller). The script here is brilliant. It makes enough time for both humour and emotional moments, with jokes that will please the young and the old alike. And the way the fourth wall is constantly broken with lines like "This is going to be a really short movie," never stops being entertaining.

I have to mention the songs as well. The first song to feature in The Muppets I couldn't help but cringe at. It's not that it was bad, but it was very cheesy and I worried that they would all be like that.

Thankfully, my fears were unfounded. The songs are brilliant and broken up by some gags to keep you entertained.
In fact, the songs turn out being one of the film's biggest strengths.

And for all you muppet fans out there, don't worry, none of the (original) muppets are over-used or lose their dignity from this film. The script treats them with respect and makes the best out of all of them!

The only muppet I could take or leave was new addition, Walter. He's a fine addition to the muppet line-up, but just a little dull. This isn't a huge problem though, and definitely didn't limit my enjoyment of the film.

Walter and Kermit

And if your a fan of celebrity cameos, you won't be disappointed here is all I'll say...

I find it difficult to find much to fault the Muppets with. It's funny, it's filled with catchy songs and also more emotional moments. It's ending is actually amazing, and signs the film off on a high! Whether your young or old, a muppet fan, or a newcomer to the series - you need to see this.